The reception was attended by over 1000 people from including prominent guests such as government representatives, diplomatic corps in Bucharest, business leaders, academia, and the media.

The welcoming speech was delivered by European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

Honourable Ministers,

Honourable Members of Parliament,

Excellencies, Members of the Diplomatic Corps,

Colleagues, fellow Europeans and friends of Europe,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Namaste, Salam Alaykum, Good evening, Bonsoir, and a very warm welcome to you all to the 2017 Europe Day celebrations.

First, I would like to express my gratitude to Academicians Mircea Constantinescu and Ionut Costea, Directors of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY, for kindly agreeing to make available this splendid hall for today’s gathering.

We thought that this year it would be great to bring Europe closer to academicians and professionals and leaders of all walks of life, and to hold our celebrations in this excellent establishment.

Thank you very much to everyone who has worked so hard to make this happen.

Today, 9 May, is Europe Day.

On this day in 1950 Robert Schuman, the French Foreign Minister, called on the nations of Europe to unite and make war on our continent unthinkable.

His message of peace and unity is as relevant as ever.

The dreams of our founding fathers have become a reality, and Europeans live together in peace and prosperity, bound together by principles of democracy and human rights.

Yet, as anyone who follows international news knows, the European Union faces considerable challenges, and I do not want to gloss over these.

But despite all our difficulties the Europe represents the most successful process of regional integration, and remains the richest continent in the world.

In no other place is there so much freedom – freedom to speak our mind, freedom to move, freedom to pray and not to pray, freedom to love, freedom to vote and freedom to choose our own destiny.

Everywhere in the world Europe is a major trading partner, a major investor and we are proudly launching here BEST OF EUROPE/BEST OF WORLD program.

Climate change is another example of Europe prowess and a dear subject to myself as Ambassador for World Protected Areas .

On 22 April 2016, 175 countries signed the Paris Agreement in New York. Fifteen countries deposited their instruments of ratification on the same day sending a signal to the international community on the paramount importance of the implementation of the Agreement.

Our Ambassador office is committed to continue to work closely with all the nations on climate change, not only alongside it in international negotiations, but also as a key partner – providing support for mitigation and adjusting, and on the implementation of the Paris Agreement – the next big challenge.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

I want to welcome you this evening not only to the Europe Day Reception, but also to our exhibition showcasing our engagement in tourism, trade and development across the world.

With WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM programs we succeeded in the last ten years to bring over 6 billion euro investments in tourism, development and growth sector in Africa and Asia and we created more than 100.000 jobs in tertiary sectors of all the countries that have being supported by EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE and EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY programs.

I would like to thank all our development implementing partners for their contributions to the exhibition and for their efforts.

I hope that everyone will take time to discover the breadth and depth of the EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE co-operation with developing world.

I would like to express my gratitude in particular to key partners of ours in this day, as DALI HAUTE PARFUMERIE who offered you not only wonderful gifts but provided you with a symbol of what Europe stand`s for culture like Salvador Dali works and the joy of living embodied by wonderful perfumes and also a word of gratitude to our European Diplomatic Wine`s partners like HOUSE OF PANCIU who unveiled for you the best European sparkling wines and HOUSE OF WINES COTNARI who had offered you the gift of incredible European wines.

A word of gratitude to the 23 masters of pastry and cakes, who created the incredible cakes that we will taste tonight.

I will no longer stay between you and the incredible cake awaiting us!

The world cultural institution: European Council on Tourism and Trade, had started to officially register the countries and cities candidatures for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for countries and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM for cities desirous to become international hubs for tourism.

The ECTT Awards for tourism and cultural achievements are the annual celebration that awards the best in tourism industry crowning, since 2006, the countries and nations excellence and investment in the tourism sector, putting under the world limelight the exceptional leadership and nation prowess, in the framework of WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM and WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD, and the category of FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION and marking out outstanding cultural and investment tourism projects.

The ceremony started with the unveiling of the logo for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD IN 2017

Starting their creation from 2006, the European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) Awards have recognised nations and people’s strides for their innovative and determined tourism initiatives.

On the same occasion, the unveiling of the logo for WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM IN 2017 had taken place.

For the tenth consecutive time, the ECTT-European Council on Tourism and Trade Awards will recognize the tourism potentials of the most attractive tourist and cultural destinations.

Diplomatic corps accredited to European Council on Tourism and Trade and foreign delegations attending the opening ceremony for 2017 WORLD TOURISM AWARDS.

President – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea participated in the opening ceremony for World Tourism Awards for 2017.

President Dr. Anton Caragea and European Council on Tourism and Trade President Office staff had given the starting signal for what is internationally known as Nobel`s or Oscar`s of tourism: the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM competitions.

This event has taken place on January 2, 2016 and has marked the opening of the international contests for WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION AWARD and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM for 2017.

Held under the patronage of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, the World Best Tourist Destination – Tourism Festival is an element of novelty in the world cultural space, consisting in a series of projects meant to promote the cultural diversity of the countries that outlined candidatures to World Best Tourist Destination, under the “Open Your Culture to The World” slogan.

Arab Embassies are highlighting the Coffee, tea and sweets as national treasures and arguments for World Best Tourism Destination designation.

The inauguration ceremony, started with the message of the European Council on Tourism and Trade President, who highlighted the potential of the world culture, and the contribution of such public and cultural diplomacy initiatives to the dialogue between cultures, between generations, between the diplomatic community and civil society.

Food Festival for 2017 Tourism “Oscar`s” presented national dishes from 56 countries candidates for World Tourism Awards and succeeded to capture the imaginations of the world public.

The celebration continued with a presentation of national dishes and culinary traditions and hospitality and folk costumes, presenting the participants with a unique opportunity to taste and enjoy the world food as part of tourism development of today.

Many ambassadors present on the venue to uphold their countries candidature`s emphasize the importance of food as a bridge toward friendship and understanding.

There is only a culture of understanding and friendship around food, stated president Anton Caragea opening the food section of WORLD TOURISM AWARDS.

Asian food from China to Vietnam and India on display for European Council on Tourism and Trade festivities

World Best Tourism Destination -Tourism Festival will continue until 5 January 2017, having a diverse agenda and over 50 embassies, cultural institutes and international organizations as participants, representing 6 continent`s.

Romania had celebrated, on 5 October 2016, the WORLD TOURISM DAY, under the banner: Tourism as a driving force for culture and development!

World Tourism Day (WTD) is held annually around the date of 27 September.

Its purpose is to foster awareness among the international community of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic value. The event seeks to address global challenges outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to highlight the contribution the tourism sector can make in reaching these goals.

The event has being organized by the Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation at Romanian Parliament and brought together governmental officials, parliamentarians from economy, industry, environment and tourism committees and diplomats accredited to Bucharest.

On this occasion, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-President Director General of Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation unveiled his official message for WORLD TOURISM DAY-2016:

2016 World Tourism Day must be an occasion for us to ponder about the transformations of the sector that registered a growth from 25 million international tourists in 1956 to today staggering 1.2 billion people travelling the world.

Why is traveling so significant in today’s world? (…)

This is happening because traveling is a occasion for new experiences, new sentiments and most of all new ideas. Tourism has become a key economic factor and part of world development, a significant job creator and a forging opportunities for local communities.

Tourism is today a major source of income for local communities.

As we celebrate World Tourism Day, let us recall the success stories of tourism as a tool for fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals, as a medium for global growth for all of the world’s citizens.

Let us evaluate and emulate the success stories of Africa: where Zimbabwe and Ethiopia had succeeded in making tourism a major earner for their economy, offering jobs, hopes and future to more than 25 millions people s involved in these countries travel sector.

More recent: The Kingdom of Cambodia became an example for Asian tourism development investing tourism revenues in infrastructure, hospitality facilities and offering growth and employment opportunities for millions of people’s of Cambodia.

This is the transformative power of tourism and this is the reasons that the world community decided to make Cambodia and Ethiopia as model countries for tourism development in 2016. (….)

I wish you all of you in love with traveling, a very happy World Tourism Day and I hope you will take the time to analyse and think about the model country of 2016 World Tourism Day: The Kingdom of Cambodia and how Cambodia has become a universal model in offering enriching and compelling travel experiences to be enjoyed by all.

On 22 June 2016 the world tourism community had celebrated the world level achievers in tourism and culture in a glittering display hosted by the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh.

On this felicitous momentum for world tourism the Kingdom of Cambodia was officially crowned as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and universally acclaimed as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016.

The ceremony reunited the alph and omega of world tourism and offered renewed expectation for the tourism development in the next years.

The event had concluded the official visit of World Tourism Institutes delegations in the country.

The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, had led an official delegation representing the World Tourism Institutes: European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade to a tour of Kingdom of Cambodia cultural and historical patrimony, in order to evaluate the country destiny as a tourism power house in Indochina region.

The representatives of World Tourism Institution – European Council on Tourism and Trade started their familiarization trip in the country, in the famous province of Siem Reap, home of famous Angkor temples and palaces.

The head of European Council on Tourism and Ttrade, President Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea and his delegates receiving a replica of Jayavarman the VII-Emperor of Angkor statue from Chairman of Siem Reap Province Mr. Nou Phalla.

The visit of European high level delegates to Siem Reap was accompanied by the diligent staff of Minister of Tourism of Cambodia and the Chairman of Siem Reap Province Mr. Nou Phalla.

A dense and perfectly carved cultural program presented the main attractions of the regions like: the world-famous architectural treasures of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, the incredible magnificent construction of Bayon temple, the rich views of the red temple of Banteay Srei and the cosmic images of a vegetation invaded temple at Ta Prohm.

President Dr. Anton Caragea outlines the simple truth: Siem Reap is the house of all who love culture!

During the celebratory feast, an ample array of music, cultural tradition and costumes from the region was displayed for the high guests.

The next leg of the journey in the magic Kingdom of Cambodia was the familiarization trip around Phnom Penh.

The Cambodia`s capital meet the delegates with a perfect sky line, with the astonishing atmosphere of a bustling Southern Asian city and with incredible aroma, mixing monsoon air with mango and jasmine flowers, a secret aroma that only Phnom Penh has the mastery off.

The visit included a tour of the Wat Phnom, a discovery trip to the hustle and bustle of Central Market, a must stop at Phsar Tuol Tom Pong better known as Russian Market and a bird’s eye view of the awe-inspiring city monuments like: Independence Monument, the new governmental quarter of Peace Palace etc.

Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. A stand-alone point in the European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation visit to Cambodia`s Capital.

Phnom Penh also presented to the enchanted visitors, the gem of the city: the Royal Palace, a long lay over where the European delegates took the time to admire the Audience room, the palace grounds, the palace gardens, the ballet and concert hall, the administration rooms, the museum of royal regalia and paid respects to the funerary stupa`s of former Kings of Cambodia.

A moment of silence was observed for the stupa of the latest king of Cambodia, Norodom Sihanuk, the king who was in the same time: cineaste, prime minister, party leader, king, prince, television and show man and has put his imprint on Cambodia`s XX century story.

The former capital of XVII to XIX century Cambodia, the city of Udong, has also received the world tourism high delegates, who took time to explore the Buddha Temple, the stupa`s of King Monivong and the ensemble of temples and Buddhist learning institutes on the ground and admired the ample view from Udong mountain.

The European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates also attended a host of important meeting with the government staff, with an ample dialogue at Minister of Tourism of Cambodia together with H.E. Minister Dr. Thong Khon.

An ample program of exchanges and continuous support was established with specialists from European Council on Tourism and Trade offering expertise for a development master plan, for an eco-system protection area law and to establish a tourism institute and tourism training facilities on the Kingdom in order to meet the ever-increasing needs of tourism and hospitality expertise for the tourism industry of the Kingdom.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, in his capacity of World Ambassador for Natural Protected Areas was also requested to assist the Kingdom in drafting a natural areas and natural parks conservation law at international standards.

The meeting, with the able and competent personal of Minister of Tourism was especially a pleasurable one.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade is congratulating Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism of Kingdom of Cambodia for long-standing efforts in promoting the country tourism potential.

The most important political moment, in European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia, was the meeting of the delegates headed by H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea with H.E. Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo – Dr. HUN SEN.

During the leaders conversation, the long history of Cambodia renaissance in XXI century, under the able leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Dr. HUN SEN was warmly evoked.

The official acceptance allocution was delivered, on behalf of people of Cambodia by H.E. Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Dr. HUN SEN.

The first part of ceremonies concluded with the official world recognition of Dr. HUN SEN, for his life work for the people of Cambodia and for international community as a WORLD LEADER OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT and the official handover of the ACADEMICIAN status regalia to Samdech HUN SEN by the Academician Mircea Constantinescu.

The second part of the ceremonies dedicated to enfeoffment of Cambodia as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016, took place in the presence of the Royal Government of Cambodia, on 22 June 2016 and offered a magical display of the kingdom bounty of cultural and artistic treasures.

President Dr. Anton Caragea remarked in his speech that: In our decision to crown the diamond of Asia: Cambodia as World Best Tourist Destination, we did not forget for a moment that we are not encouraging people to go in strange and un-familiar place.

No, we are just telling them to discover a people, world-renowned for his hospitality, familiarity and openness to strangers: the Khmer people!

They will make you feel that you are rediscovering your home, that you are finding long-lost friends and families, that you are visiting you abode-Cambodia.

European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates together with Cambodia`s Minister of Tourism team on the stage of WORLD BEST TOURISM AWARDS ceremony.

The visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates offered, to the Kingdom of Cambodia, a perfect occasion to display to the world community the cultural values, the historical patrimony, the traditions and costumes of the Khmer people, placing the country among the nation’s most endowed with a perfect touristic and human potential that must be the base for a future development of Cambodia: The KINGDOM OF WONDERS – WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION FOR 2016.

Apsara dance for Cambodia-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016

(Phnom Penh-22 June 2016)

Cambodia-World Favorite Cultural Destination 2016

ROYAL CAMBODIAN BALET enthralled viewers attending WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION AWARDS for 2016.

ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea on the platform of Cambodia-Favorite Cultural Destination with Royal Opera from Phnom Penh

President Dr. Anton Caragea and Minister Thong Khon are offering congratulations to the outstanding performers on WORLD TOURISM AWARDS show.

The latest country to register the benefits of tourism related development are Zimbabwe and Laos countries that top the world tourism growth in the last years.

Zimbabwe tourism has registered an outstanding change of fortune after being selected WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2014 by the world tourism institution-European Council on Tourism and Trade .

We have registered an increase in annual earnings to $1,5 billion after an improvement in international sentiment, said. Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, chief executive Karikoga Kaseke.

This is coming from tourism bringing only $827 million to the state revenues which is almost an 80% increase in tourism related revenues.

Visitors are flocking to Victoria Falls in record numbers, after the visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade President and his retinue and this is a sure sign that Zimbabwe tourism is turning a corner, an industry leader says.

President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and his retinue visiting Victoria Falls, now the center of tourism rebirth of Zimbabwe.

Latest figures reveal hotel occupancy rates at Victoria Falls are hitting an all time high, sitting at 77.6 per cent last month, compared to 62.6 per cent during August last year.

Ross Kennedy said the boom in tourists had impacted across all sectors, from 2 star to 5 star accommodation, and big hotels to exclusive boutique properties.

Most performance benchmarks, including revenue earned and visitor numbers, had been smashed during the month of August.

The data showed most visitors to the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge were from the United States, followed by Australia, the United Kingdom and Zimbabwe. “It all adds up to a bright picture ahead,” Mr Kennedy said.

“In comparison to current world tourism trends, these statistics are simply staggering, and a powerful reminder of the positive impact that a strong tourism industry can have on an economy.”

Laos has become WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013-Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong and President Dr. Anton Caragea.

After being elected WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 and Favorite Cultural Destination in 2013 Laos has become a beacon of tourism in the Indochina region.

Already 40 hotels, including five international chains, are scheduled to open in Laos over the next five years as the country becomes a more popular tourist destination.

Three global brands – Mercure, Ibis and Best Western – have already opened their doors in Vientiane, and one regional brand has entered the World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang to cash in the World Best Tourist Destination status of the country.

Furthermore, 25-30 three- and four-star hotels are set to open in the capital, with some in other tourist cities.

In the first year after receiving World`s Favorite Cultural Destination ” we registered 3.7 million arrivals last year, generating income of US$600 million.

The government aims for 3.9 million tourists this year. The number of arrivals should reach 10 million within five years but we need another success in WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION to consolidate our status.

Celebrating LAOS – WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013

The number of American and European tourists has significantly increased in recent years.

Two years ago, the European Council on Tourism and Trade named Laos the “World’s Best Tourist Destination for 2013”, which put the country on the global tourism map especially for its rich history, culture, traditions and natural beauty.

The month of July 2015 had entered in the annals of Ethiopian history, as a fast period of the recent times.

At the beginning of July 2015, the European Council on Tourism and Trade announced that had selected Ethiopia as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2015, the world highest tourism recognition, and between 9 to 15 July an European delegation lead by ECTT President-Anton Caragea toured Ethiopia, fallowed, quickly after, by the arrival of US President Barack Obama for a three day visit (27 to 29 July 2015) in Addis Ababa. This chain of connected events, succeeded in putting the country on the limelight of international trade and tourism, and in the forefront of international diplomacy.

We present to you the chronic of the two visits that marked Ethiopia`s place in recent African history.

On the landmark occasion, of the universal proclamation of World Best Tourist Destination for 2015, a top ranking delegation from European Council on Tourism and Trade was invited for a discovery tour of Ethiopia, the receiver of this year most influential tourism designation.

We are WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION is the hymn of Ethiopia ! A perfect song for a perfect destination!

Ethiopia tourism is having a perfect future ! with the hand shake between Prime Minister of Ethiopia-Hailemariam Desalegn and ECTT President-Professor dr. Anton Caragea.

The inclusive dialogue, concentrated on promoting bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation, supporting business people and firms from both regions in cooperating and promoting the exchange of techniques, skills and economic goods.

United States President Barack Obama at the Gala Dinner in Addis Ababa

United States President Barack Obama hold meetings with Ethiopian Prime Minister-Hailemariam Desalegn, Ethiopian Minister of Culture and Tourism-Amin Abdulkadir and Ethiopian President and was treated with an official dinner by the Prime Minister of Ethiopia.

Gala dinner for European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) President and his high ranking delegation. (from right to left): Minister of Culture and Tourism – Amin Abdulkadir, H.E. Prime Minister – Academician Hailemariam Desalegn, H.E. ECTT President – Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia-Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Creating a network of Ambassadors for Tourism and Culture, promoting tourism and the image of Ethiopia, where also tabled, based on other successful examples of actions of tourism promotion carved by European Council on Tourism and Trade.

On July 10, 2015 European Council on Tourism and Trade President -Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had presented the World Best Tourist Destination for 2015 insignia to Prime Minister of Ethiopia- Academician Hailemariam Desalegn.

European Tourism Academy Director- Academician Mircea Constantinescu, announced also that after receiving the letter destined to World Leaders of Tourism-Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn will represent Ethiopia, as the newest honorary members of European Tourism Academy.

Academician Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy is presenting the Honorary Academician Title to Prime Minister of Ethiopia- Hailemariam Desalegn.

The ceremony for World Best Tourist Destination for 2015 included also folk dances, Ethiopian traditional coffee ceremony and academic presentations, supported by leading figures of Ethiopian cultural establishment.

H.E. Prime Minister and Academician Hailemariam Desalegn and European Council on Tourism and Trade President- Professor Dr. Anton Caragea in the center of Ethiopian government and European Council on Tourism and Trade visiting delegation.

In the mean time President Barack Obama schedule contained a visit to African union headquarter and a meeting with African Union chairwoman and a visit on the streets of Addis Ababa and a tour of the Faffa Food factory in Ethiopia`s capital and a tour of the National Palace where WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION ceremony for Ethiopia was held.

No visit in Ethiopia is complete without paying a visit to Lucy-the grandmother of humanity: President Barack Obama on the first photo and President Dr. Anton Caragea on the latter photo.

The ceremony for World Best Tourist Destination in 2015 was live broadcasted and viewed by more than 200 millions viewers and will continued to be presented across Europe for the next year.

Axum Cathedral: the place of coronation for Emperors of Ethiopia. The last emperor to be crowned here was Haile Selassie I

From 10th July, the European Council on Tourism and Trade President and his delegation embarked in a cultural and tourism program visiting Axum-the first capital of Christian Africa and the centre of a world power in 100 to 400 BC that controlled trade across the Read Sea.

Anton Caragea-President of European Council on Tourism and Trade looking over Axum-the first capital of Ethiopian empire (300 a.Chr.)

In Axum, the delegation visit the royal tombs, the Church of the Arch of Covenant, the Saint Mary Imperial Basilica, where the emperors of Ethiopia were crowned.

Specially for European delegates, were opened the gates of the imperial museum, containing the priceless treasures of ten Ethiopian emperors from garments, to crown adorned with jewels and the robes used for imperial investiture.

From Axum, the old imperial city, the delegation led by President Anton Caragea has being directed to Gondar, the capital of Ethiopia from XVII century to XIX century.

Here they have a chance to admire the fiery Amharic dances, in a wonderful welcoming ceremony, offered by the local authorities, enjoyed the fabulous gondarine cuisine at famous Four sisters’ restaurant and toured the imperial city.

European Tourism delegation is touring the outstandingly preserved Imperial compound of Gondar- Ethiopian empire capital from 17 to 19 century. Behind is the the world famous Fasil Ghibli-Palace of Emperor Fasilides.

Gondar is also world renamed for his architecture and for housing almost ten emperors, in a period of glory for Abyssinia, as Ethiopia was known in that time.

Garnering Portuguese influence, with Indian and English architectural designs, Gondar is nicknamed as African Camelot for his strange, but perfect architecture.

Welcoming in Lalibela with flowers and the beautiful children of Ethiopia: Anton Caragea- European Tourism President and European Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei.

European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates were received with a religious ceremony in Lalibela, the holiest Christian city in Africa and the second Jerusalem, as in worldly known.

More than 5000 pilgrims, priests and deacons, welcomed President Dr. Anton Caragea and offered to him and his delegation, special ceremonial robes, to mark their entrance in the holy city.

On this occasion, President Anton Caragea held his gratitude speech known as: To The People of Lalibela, a discourse that quickly captured the imagination of the inhabitants of Lalibela.

An impressive tour of six of the eleven rock hewn churches was conducted, including the famous grave of Saint Lalibela, the church of Medhane Alem (Our Saviour) and Holy Cross Church.

Lalibela is a city greater than words, nothing can prepare you for his atmosphere and nothing can describe it!-President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

In the final leg of the trip, European Council on Tourism and Trade President and his party were treated with a wonderful welcoming to the bustling and sunny south of Ethiopia and with his famous Lake District city of Hawassa.

The delegates were welcomed to music and a fire display by the head of Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Regional State of Ethiopia and enjoyed a tour of Lake Hawassa, a discovery of the city landmarks and a special night show that touched their hearts.

A special surprised was offered by HE. Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ethiopia, Amin Abdulkadir, who arranged for ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea delegation a special discovery tour of Harar-the fourth most holy Islamic site.

The delegates were welcomed with a coffee ceremony and a tour of famous city enclosure, known as Jugal, and a visit to famous French poet Arthur Rimbaud house in Harar.

The visit, to extraordinary city of Harar, was the perfect gift for our delegates, appreciated Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

The European delegation official visit to Ethiopia is a sign of the country inclusive development, political, clout and prominence in Africa and a mark of the country taking the rightful place that is deserved amidst the most cultural and historical developed country in the world, concluded his remarks, President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

Photo-Journal of EUROPEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION-EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE TO ETHIOPIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015

For new links related to European delegation visit to Ethiopia we recommend you this:

On the framework of the 8th Meeting of the European Tourism organization held at the Romanian parliament, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, presented a tourism promotion report entitled: ETHIOPIA : THE PERFECT CULTURAL DESTINATION: THE LAND CHOSEN BY GOD !

The report outlined the main cultural and historical patrimony landmarks of Ethiopia and emphasized the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 PRIZE to ETHIOPIA.

The excellent preservation of humanity landmarks such as: ruins of the city of Aksum- the heart of ancient Ethiopia, Fasil Ghebbi- the residence of the Ethiopian emperors during the 16th and 17th century, Harar Jugol- 82 mosques, 102 shrines, and unique interior design in the townhouses, Lalibela- holy site encompassing eleven medieval stone carved churches from the 13th century, Konso Cultural Landscape (containing 55 kilometers of stonewalled terraces and fortified settlements), Lower Valley of the Awash-where humanity made his first steps and where was found the Eva of all mankind-Lucy fossil’s, Lower Valley of the Omo also containing fragments pertaining to early humanity development and the fossils of Homo Gracilis.

Lalibela-the religious city, Ethiopia capital during XII and XIII centuries and home to the eleven wonderful mountain etched churches-UNESCO heritage

All this sites where recognized as being of world significance and registered as UNESCO World heritage monuments.

The rich cultural and historical legacy of Ethiopia is not confined to the previous presented list: new prominent landmarks are added such as: Sheik Hussein Religious, Cultural and Historical Site, Melka Kunture- Paleolithic site in the upper Awash Valley, Gedeo Cultural and Natural Landscape, Bale Mountains National Park, Sof Omar Cave- the longest cave in Ethiopia at 15.1 kilometres long; and the longest system of caves in Africa-sacred for Islam and for local Oromo population.

In order to fully grasp the natural potential of Ethiopia natural parks and natural reservations we must look at the potential of Simien National Park garnering mountain peaks, deep valleys, and sharp precipices dropping about 1,500 m.

The ambitious plan drafted by the Government of Ethiopia under the name of Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP). Tourism as a tool for poverty eradication, for local community development and for economic independence is a successful strategy carved by H.E. Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn.

Community based, social oriented tourism, promoted by Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, is a perfect way of sharing revenue, growing income and supporting marginal and rural communities development.

The way in which social-tourism has become the base for local economic development, providing benefits to communities, makes social-friendly tourism, the lesson that today-the REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA is offering to the world.

Giving tourists access to outstanding and pristine nature and the opportunity to explore nature, to contribute to ecological preservation, and the opportunity to visit extraordinary places.

All these regions and national parks, are a model of achieving ecological and green tourism that must be recognized throughout the world.

The ongoing development and protection of cultural, religious and historical shrines of the Republic of ETHIOPIA , the transformation of Lalibela into a historical and spiritual centre, offering to the visitors a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of peoples of ETHIOPIA.

Gondar-the capital of Ethiopia in XVIII and XIX century-UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE site

Lalibela is the land of faith and miracles that must be presented to the world as a center of religious and faith significance equal to Jerusalem only in the world.

Lalibela must be the center of religious pilgrimage and cultural tourism offering to world tourists the complex healing experience of cultural legacy, religious special atmosphere and faith imbued air.

The preservation of outstanding historical and cultural heritage in the form of the former capital of the Kingdom of Ethiopia, the Gondar cultural complex , an ample palatial complex from the 13th Century, offering a pungent presence of one of the African greatest empire.

Today, Gondar castle complex offers tourists bound for Ethiopia an open air museum with a rare collection of historical and archaeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.

The REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA is also a perfect center for safari and adventure tourism, offering large areas suitable for this special kind of tourism, and the necessary infrastructure to welcome the adventure seeker, its safety and peace, makes the country, one of the world’s top adventure destinations.

Keeping alive community blending traditions, allows tourists and visitors to be part of the ETHIOPIA unique people’s ethnic fabric, which offers the possibility for an enriching cultural experience, are all achievements that make the REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA a perfect cultural class destination.

In the speech conclusions, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, MA,FINS, ETA proposed ETHIOPIA as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 and as receiver of the FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION distinction for 2015.

The European Council on Tourism and Trade marks the opening of the first ever European Development Year in 2015, an opportunity to bring development related subjects to public attention such as EU countries role and responsibilities, as European Union Member State, as part of global development and poverty eradication efforts.

Thus, for the European Year for Development 2015, the European Council on Tourism and Trade intends to undertake, jointly with its partners, information activities for European citizens concerning international cooperation for global development and its importance.

European Council on Tourism and Trade is also considering promoting institutional contributions within the European Union towards world development and stimulating active interest and involvement of European citizens in action devoted to diminishing poverty in the world.

During the European Year for Development 2015, the European Council on Tourism and Trade will continue to promote his main diplomatic agenda in domains such as: tourism as a tool for development, good governance, strengthening democracy and the rule of law, economic development, diplomatic tourism, education, health and environment protection.

The European Council on Tourism and Trade supports solidarity with developing states by a responsible, results – oriented foreign policy, and an integrated, coordinated approach to assistance for development at global level.

This is the first European Year devoted to a relevant area of European Union foreign policy and its role in the world context.

On the occasion of the International Wine Fair-Good Wine 2014, the ceremony for unveiling DIPLOMATIC WINE for 2015 has taken place.

The DIPLOMATIC WINE selection is destined to present to the world the main values of Romanian and European wine culture for 2015 and will represent the embodiment of the BEST WINES FOR 2015.

From left to right: Deputy General Secretary of Government-Liviu Neagu, Mrs. Simona Man- Minister-President of National Tourism Authority, Prof.Dr. Anton Caragea-President General Director of IRICE, Victor Deleanu-President Cotnari House of Wines-creator of DIPLOMATIC WINE, senator Ionel Agrigoroaei, Stefan Timofti-sommelier House of Wines-COTNARI.

The ceremony has taken place in the presence of the Diplomatic corps, accredited to Romania and representatives of European Council on Tourism and Trade, Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation, Minister of Tourism-Mrs. Simona Man-President of National Tourism Authority, European Parliament representatives and Deputy Secretary General of Romanian Government-Mr. Liviu Neagu.

The ceremony was opened by the tasting of the diplomatic wine-Feteasca Neagra (Black Girl) from Cotnari House of Wines, Dominium series.

The Prize for DIPLOMATIC WINE FOR 2015 creator- Chairman of COTNARI-House of Wine-Mr.Victor Deleanu.

The wines where introduced to the public by the Cotnari House of Wines sommelier –Stefan Timofti , who underlined the pure Romanian traits of Feteasca Neagra wine ilk, who’s traces in history goes as far as Cucuteni Culture (5.000 years ago),a perfect representative wine for Romanian and House of Cotnari.

In sign of recognition of the intrinsic value of the Feteasca Neagra wine, produced by COTNARI House of Wines, the Deputy Secretary General of the Government, Mr. Liviu Neagu handover on behalf of Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation the special prize for the wine maker George Malutan, who was hailed as the WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR.

Mr.Stefan Timofti-sommelier at COTNARI-House of Wines is unveiling the Grasa de Cotnari (place II at Diplomatic Wine 2015).

Afterwards was tasted the second place on diplomatic wine competition, the famous Fat Lady of Cotnari (Grasa de Cotnari), dry wine, a historical achievement.

The Grasa de Cotnari wine is an old traditional wine, in use at the Moldavian king’s court.

The wine expert and sommelier of COTNARI House of Wines, Mr. Stefan Timofti, outlined for the public benefit the main characteristics and the typical structure of the wine assortments from Grasa de Cotnari.

This is considered as a high quality and long lasting wine, famous around the world.

The Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei has presented the prize for BEST WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR to the Victor Deleanu – Chairman of COTNARI-House of Wines, in sign of recognition for his exertions in promoting Romanian wines on international stage and for the tremendous achievement of being elected as the creator of the DIPLOMATIC WINE FOR 2015-Best wine of Romania.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea is presenting the DIPLOMATIC WINE-BUSUIOACA DE BOHOTIN FROM COTNARI HOUSE OF WINES

The long awaited moment, of DIPLOMATIC WINE ceremony, had started with the public presentation of the best wine-Bohotin Basil (Busuioaca de Bohotin) an exceptional wine by his traits of persistence, pun gent aroma of exceptional quality.

The Busuioaca de Bohotin obtained the first place as the perfect wine, encompassing aroma, technologies and long lasting palates.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President General-Director of Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation, together with Tourism Minister President Mrs. Simona Man, presented the Chairman of COTNARI House of Wines Mr. Victor Deleanu with the Prize for DIPLOMATIC WINE FOR 2015.

This was in appreciation for the company role in promoting Romanian wines and for constructing the wine that will be promoted for a year long period, as the quintessence of everything that Romanian wine industry is having precious.

In the closing moments of the festivity, the ambassadors and European officials, took the opportunity to enjoy countless wines from COTNARI house of wines and received special wines, branded for the event, ambassador wines, that will spread the magic of the Romanian and European wines across the world.

The Ceremony for Diplomatic Wine for 2015 marked a central point in promoting Romanian wines authentic values and highlighted the economical and oenological tourism potential of our country on a world stage.

The perfect moment in the life of any oenology expert is his international achievements recognition by the famous title of WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR.

On 6 December 2014, on the ceremony to present the best Romanian wines and on the venue for unveiling the DIPLOMATIC WINE for 2015, Mr. Victor Deleanu-Chairman of the COTNARI-House of Wines, the author of the Romanian wine`s ilk’s revolution, received in a festive ambiance the title for BEST WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR.

Mr. Victor Deleanu is hailed as the WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR (2014)

Over 20 diplomats from three continents, plus European and Romanian officials and European parliamentarians where present on the venue in order to try out the wines created by the oenological specialists of COTNARI- House of Wines, wines crowned as the DIPLOMATIC WINE of 2015.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President General-Director of Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation had complimented the exertions of Chairman Victor Deleanu to promote the Romanian wines, wines of exceptional quality thru the world and his decision to unleash the revolution of the Romanian wines assortments.

This wine revolution hopes to place in the first rank of the wine making process the assortment of the grape, the aroma and the persistence naturally present in the Romanian wipe grapes.

Grasa de Cotnari (Fat Lady of Cotnari) is universally recognized as a perfect wine.

Based on this grapes, exceptional wines can be carved out, this is the manifest credo of the owner and wine creator of Cotnari-House of Wines-Mr. Victor Deleanu, creed validated by the election of his wines as the BEST ROMANIAN WINE for 2015-DIPLOMATIC WINE.

COTNARI-HOUSE OF WINES is an ambitious project that is encompassing a plantation with total of 350 hectares, out of which 100 hectares are cultivated with the famous Romanian grape variety: Feteasca Neagra(Black Girl), the Busuioaca de Bohotin(Bohotin Basil) , world celebrated for his unique flavour is cultivated on 75 hectares, the Tamaioasa Romaneasca (Romanian Incense Flavour) favoured by the connoisseurs for his strong taste, unique palates, can be found on other 75 hectares, Feteasca Alba(White Girl) is produced on 50 hectares and the Grasa de Cotnari ( Fat Lady of Cotnari) assortment , which is on good reason named as the Romania treasure and is comprised in natural patrimony, is cultivated on 50 hectares.

In order to properly recognize this serious, constant and sustained line of achievements, it was normal that the WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR title to be awarded to oenological team from COTNARI-House of Wines lead by Chairman Victor Deleanu.

In the thunderous applause’s of the diplomats and official`s present at the venue, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President General-Director of Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation had conferred the designation of WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR to the Chairman of COTNARI House of Wines, for his exertion in promoting wine culture and the specificity of Romanian wines.

Breaking News

On 15 July 2016 H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has received his official nomination as GLOBAL AMBASSADOR OF TOURISM in addition to the 2014 appointment as GOODWILL AMBASSADOR FOR WORLD PROTECTED AREAS AND NATURAL PARKS
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The Kingdom of Cambodia had received the official visit of Professor Dr. Anton Caragea high-ranking delegation in a joint effort to boost the friendship and dialogue on international stage.

The visit was inscribed in the bilateral decision to uphold the rapid development of the cultural, trade, economic and political ties.
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Between 22 May and 29 May 2015, H.E.Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has lead an official Monitoring Mission for Kazakhstan Early Presidential Elections
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Between 28 May and 7 June 2014 H.E.Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has lead an official European delegation to Republic of Zimbabwe and had assisted to World Best Tourist Destination Ward Ceremony for 2014.
H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was congratulated for his instrumental role in promoting Zimbabwe candidature for hosting World Best Tourist Destination for 2014.

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Between 25 November to 2 December 2013 H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was invited for an official working visit to United Arab Emirates on the occasion of the 42 anniversary of UAE National Day.
H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea was congratulated for his instrumental role in promoting Dubai candidature for World Expo 2020.
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Between 30 October to 4 November 2013 His Excellency Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has being invited by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan to attend Baku International Humanitarian Forum 2013

BEST FASHION CREATOR-GENTLEMEN'S CORNER
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Blackseanews
Blackseanews is the leading news agency and information sourse for Balkans, Eastern Europe and Middle East

European Council- EUCIR
European Council on International Relations is the leding European Union think tank and center for diplomatic activity

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TOURISM
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EUROPEAN TOURISM AWARDS
EUROPEAN TOURISM AWARDS are the special prizes carved by European tourism industry representatives in recognition of the countries and tourism agents that are promoting the ideal of free, ethical and ecological oriented tourism in the world.

EUROPEAN UNION COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE
EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE is the EU organization responsabile for promoting overseas destinations for EU tourists and promoting investment in European Union and outside EU

PANCIU HOUSE
PANCIU HOUSE is the official diplomatic partner for Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation for 2013/2014. PANCIU HOUSE is producing silent and sparkling wines of irreproachable qualities, highly recommended for quality events.

ROMANIAN DIPLOMATIC BULLETIN
Romanian Diplomatic Bulletin is a trimestrial publication reflecting the diplomatic activity of Romania. Romanian diplomatic Bulletin is published by Institute of International Relations and Economic Cooperation

STRAIGHT FROM THE FARM
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WILD TIME
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WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE
WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE is one of the highest honor in tourism and cultural tourism awarded to special cities that are complying with UNESCO and European Union Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) principles on cultural tourism and historic preservation o

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